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Glite Dictionary
servomechanism

servomechanism

1 9.9
A device that uses a small signal to move something much larger precisely, for example a robot arm
  • noun
  • /ˈsɜrvəˌmɛkənɪzəm/
  • Specialized
translation icon : servomecanismo

Examples

  • I'm not some fucking servomechanism you can switch on.

    Videodrome (1983)

  • This is an example of an "unbeatable" position servomechanism.

    Academic text (2001)

  • The lens position is controlled by a servomechanism in order to minimize the misfocus.

    Academic text (1996)

  • A lot of it was burned to a crisp, but everything checks out, the voice cassettes, the servomechanisms.

    Child's Play 2 (1990)

  • The robotic arm uses a servomechanism to achieve precise movements in assembly lines.

  • In this model, the servomechanism adjusts the angle of the satellite dish automatically to maintain a strong signal.

  • Engineers use a servomechanism in automated systems to enhance the accuracy of mechanical operations.

Synonyms

servo
vsservomechanism
  • Specialized
15 8.5

A small motor that controls and moves larger parts exactly

focuses more on precise operation and often uses negative feedback for accuracy
servosystem
vsservomechanism
  • Specialized
8.8

A system where a small signal controls a larger movement to keep position accurate

is specifically a mechanical or electronic control system focused on precision

How Precise

servomechanism
  • Specialized
1 9.9
closed-loop system
  • Specialized
6.0
control system
  • Specialized
39 3.9
mechanism
  • Jargon
91 4.4

Surface Forms

servomechanism singular
servomechanisms plural

Morphology

servomechanism = servo + mechanism (semi-transparent) = servo + mechanism

The compound is compositionally 'servo' + 'mechanism', but 'servo' is a technical term/combining form that many learners may not know, reducing overall transparency.

Etymology

Servomechanism joins servo- and mechanism, where servo- is like the English serve and means 'to serve' or 'help', and mechanism means 'machine'. Think of a small helper that 'serves' a larger machine by using a small signal or movement to control a much bigger motion, which is exactly what a servomechanism does.